Epson C88+ Printer Double Red Light Blinking: Causes and How to Fix It

Question:
My Epson C88+ printer has two red lights blinking alternately - first one, then the other. What does this mean, and how can I fix it?

Answer:

Let's talk about the double red light blinking error on your Epson Stylus C88+ and what it means.

Understanding the Double Red Light Error

When the two red lights on your Epson C88+ blink alternately, it usually signals a "maintenance required" or "service required" error. In most cases, this indicates that the printer's waste ink pad counter has reached its limit - often referred to as the "waste pad full" message.

Inside every Epson printer, there are absorbent pads that collect excess ink during cleaning cycles. Over time, the printer keeps track of how much ink is stored there. Once it believes the pads are full, it automatically stops working to prevent ink overflow, even if the pads aren't physically saturated yet.

However, blinking lights can also indicate other hardware-related errors, such as a carriage jam, paper feed issue, or APG sensor fault. To confirm the exact cause, you'll need to check the printer's internal error code using a service tool called the Epson Adjustment Program.

How to Identify the Exact Error Code

To pinpoint the issue, follow these steps:

1. Run the Epson Adjustment Program
   This is a diagnostic utility originally designed for Epson technicians. Some DTF printer suppliers and service communities also share it online.

   • Launch the Adjustment Program.

   • Select the USB port where your Epson C88+ is connected.

   • Choose "Particular Adjustment Mode."

   • Scroll down and click "Printer Information Check."

   • Then click "Check."

   • The most recent error code will appear at the top as Error Number 1.

2. Interpret the Error Code
   Once you have the code, visit our website or Google search "BCH Epson Error", which will direct you to our page detailing Epson's Triple Secret Error Codes. This guide explains the meaning behind each error number, including carriage errors, ink pad overflow, and sensor failures.

   For example, an error related to the APG (Automatic Platen Gap) sensor might appear if the printer's printhead height mechanism fails to sync during startup.

3. Video Walkthrough
   For a visual guide on how to check and interpret these errors, we have a quick step-by-step video you can watch here:
   ▶️ Epson Error Code Check Tutorial
   (https://youtube.com/shorts/FPZzpyYuZLE)

Fixing the Waste Pad Full or Related Errors

If the Adjustment Program confirms that the problem is indeed a waste ink pad full message, you can:

• Reset the Waste Counter:
  The Adjustment Program can reset the counter back to zero. This will temporarily clear the error and allow printing again.

• Replace or Clean the Pads (Recommended):
  For a permanent fix, you should remove the waste pads and replace or clean them thoroughly. If you're comfortable doing DIY repairs, many third-party sellers provide compatible pad kits or external waste tank modifications.

• Check for Other Possible Causes:
  If the error relates to the APG or carriage system, open the printer and gently move the printhead carriage left and right. Remove any obstructions such as dried ink, paper scraps, or lint buildup.

When to Seek Professional Help

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer in-person evaluation and repair services (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) through our local diagnostic facility. Because of high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it might take a few weeks before your printer can be dropped off.

Our services are available for both complete printer repairs and individual part replacements, with clear instructions for the process. However, we understand our rates might not be the lowest, so we encourage you to start with self-help options online. Visit our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and use the search icon next to "About" to look for videos about Epson error resets or waste pad maintenance. With nearly a decade of tutorials, there's likely one that covers your exact issue.

Thank you again for your patience and for supporting BCH Technologies. Your continued feedback and curiosity drive us to create better resources for the printing community every day.